Cherry MX Red vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer a satisfying typing experience with their linear design. The MX Red is renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the WS Red features a 22mm double-stage spring that offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience, along with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke for a substantial typing feel. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the WS Red lacks categorization information. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red utilize nylon as their housing material, resulting in a similar deep and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. The nylon top housing of both switches contributes significantly to the typing experience, affecting the sound when pressing down on a key and when releasing it.
While the top housing of both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red is made of nylon, differences may lie in the design and construction of the switches. The bottom housing, which plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch when pressed, may vary in its impact between the two switches. Despite this, the overall typing experience and sound output may still be quite comparable due to the shared nylon material used in both the top and bottom housings. Users can expect a consistent deep and fuller sound profile when using either switch.
In terms of durability and performance, nylon is a reliable material choice for switch housings in both the Cherry MX Red and the Wuque Studio WS Red. Its softer properties help to absorb sound and create a more satisfying typing experience. While the construction and design of the switches themselves may differ slightly, the overall feel and sound of typing on these switches are likely to be quite similar due to their shared nylon housing material. Users can expect consistent and reliable performance from both switches for a prolonged period of time.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the WS Red switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The MX Red does not have a specified bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the MX Red may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the WS Red switch with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and whether a lighter or heavier touch is desired.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making the WS Red slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the MX Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Red being more common at 4 mm. Gamers may prefer the WS Red for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the MX Red. In general, a shorter travel distance is associated with quicker key presses, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Wuque Studio WS Red comes in at $3.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When comparing the sound of the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches, the MX Red is typically known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying tone when typing. In contrast, the WS Red may offer a similar auditory experience due to its classic material blend, but specific characteristics are unknown. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a pleasant typing sound, with differences potentially influenced by additional factors like keyboard design and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is often described as textured, meaning there is noticeable friction when pressing the keys. This texture can be a preference for some users, adding a tactile element to typing. On the other hand, the feel of the Wuque Studio WS Red switch remains unspecified. If the WS Red switch maintains a similar level of tactile feedback as the MX Red, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with a touch of weight behind each keystroke.
Overall, while the specific characteristics of the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch may not be fully defined, it is likely to offer a typing experience comparable to the Cherry MX Red switch. Both switches are linear in nature, providing smooth key presses without tactile bumps, and are expected to deliver a responsive and satisfying typing feel. Whether considering sound, feel, or overall performance, newcomers can expect a high-quality typing experience with either the Cherry MX Red or Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch.
Conclusion
Overall, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red and Wuque Studio WS Red linear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red switches could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing habits, desired sound and feel, and ultimate typing experience when selecting between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it's up to you to decide which one best suits your needs and preferences.
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